Span 20 CAS 1338-39-2

Product Name: Span 20
English Alias: Sorbitan monolaurate; Sorbitan laurate
CAS Number: 1338-39-2
Molecular Formula: C₁₈H₃₄O₆
Molecular Weight: 346.46 g/mol
Appearance: Amber to yellow viscous liquid or semi-solid
Package: 25 kg/drum, 50 kg/drum (HDPE plastic drum)

What is Span 20?

Span 20 is a nonionic surfactant derived from sorbitol and lauric acid, appearing as an amber to yellow viscous liquid or semi-solid with a characteristic mild odor. It is insoluble in water but dispersible, and soluble in most organic solvents. As a sorbitan ester, it functions as an effective emulsifier, stabilizer, and dispersing agent in various industrial and cosmetic applications.

COA (Certificate of Analysis):

指 标 名 称 Properties	标 准 值 Standard value		检 验 值 Test value
外       观 Appearance	淡黄色至琥珀色黏稠液体或膏体 Light yellow to amber viscous liquid or paste		符合  Apposite
颜色（罗维朋）1" Colour Lovibond （R/Y）	≤10R 45Y		4.0R 14.3Y
脂肪酸   （w/%） Fatty acid	56~68		62.6
多元醇   （w/%） Polyols	36~49		42.1
酸值 (mg KOH/g) Acid Value	≤7.0		1.8
皂化值(mg KOH/g)  Saponification Value	155~170		165.5
羟值(mg KOH/g) Hydroxyl Value	330~360		350.7
水   分  (w/%) Moisture	≤1.5		0.2
灼烧残渣 (w/%) Residue on Ignition	≤0.50		0.2
铅 Pb    (mg/kg) Lead	≤2		<2
砷  AS    (mg/kg) Arsenic	≤3		<3
检 验 结 果 Test    results	合格 Pass
备 注  Remark
化验员    赖泽金 Analyst		批准人    姚丽云 Approver

Application:

Food Industry: Emulsifier in baked goods, ice cream, and confectionery

Cosmetics: W/O emulsifier in creams, lotions, and personal care products

Pharmaceuticals: Excipient in topical formulations and drug delivery systems

Textiles: Lubricant and softening agent in fiber processing

Agriculture: Adjuvant in pesticide and herbicide formulations

Paints & Coatings: Dispersing agent in pigment preparations

Safety Profile:

Span 20 is generally considered safe for use in food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical applications when used within approved limits. May cause mild eye irritation. Avoid prolonged skin contact. Use appropriate personal protective equipment including gloves and safety glasses when handling large quantities. For detailed safety information, consult the full Safety Data Sheet (SDS).

Storage Requirements:

Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Keep containers tightly closed and sealed. Maintain storage temperature between 10-30°C. Protect from moisture and avoid contact with strong oxidizing agents.

Transport & Packaging:

Span 20 is packaged in HDPE plastic drums (25 kg or 50 kg net weight per drum). Transport as non-hazardous material under normal conditions. Ensure containers are properly sealed and protected from physical damage during transportation. Store away from incompatible materials.